LIFE Magazine Mutant Bikes from the 1940′s

Times change, but in some ways slower than it may seem. LIFE Magazine posted an incredible gallery of mutant bikes from the 1940′s, reprinted form a 1948 issue about a number of amateur craftsmen hacking together bikes every which way they could think.

“By artfully applying welders’ torches to metal tubing, the chapter’s members transform ordinary, utilitarian bicycles into traveling monstrosities. By far the most outlandish ideas have come from the Steinlauf family, who produced from their bicycle repair shop most of the oddities [shown in the article]. They are hazardous; generally at least one member of the clan is to be found in the hospital.”

City Reports

About Urban Velo

Urban Velo is a reflection of the cycling culture in current day cities. Our readers are encouraged to contribute their words and art.

Urban Velo is published fives times per year, on the even months (we skip the February issue). Issues are available for free download as they become available, with high resolution copies available for iPad purchase. Print copies are available for purchase online and at select bicycle retailers and like minded establishments across the country.